How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Water Heater Lifespan

A typical water heater can last anywhere between 5 and 13 years. Once it hits the 10-year mark, it is running on borrowed time. The good news is that you can make it last longer by keeping up with maintenance. A water heater should be checked annually and undergo maintenance every couple of years to run optimally.

Top Signs Your Water Heater Needs To Be Replaced

WYour water heater is a crucial appliance that you likely don’t think much about – until something goes wrong. When your water heater starts acting up, the signs are often quite noticeable. Some of the most obvious indicators include getting cold water from the hot tap or finding puddles near the unit. However, there are several other important signs to watch out for that may indicate it’s time for a replacement.

Before rushing to replace your water heater at the first sign of trouble, it’s wise to carefully consider your options. Think about the type, size, and model of water heater that would best suit your household’s needs. Consulting with a professional plumber can help you make an informed decision.

Here are some of the top signs that your water heater may need to be replaced:

The Water is a Strange Color

If you notice that your hot water has a reddish-brown tint or metallic taste, this could indicate that the inside of your water heater tank has begun to rust. Rust is a common issue in older units and is often a sign of internal corrosion. As the tank deteriorates, rust particles can mix with the water, leading to discoloration. This not only affects the quality of your water but can also be a precursor to leaks.

In some cases, rusty water may be caused by corroded pipes rather than the water heater itself. To determine the source, run cold water for a few minutes. If it remains clear, the issue is likely with your water heater. Regardless of the cause, rusty water is not something to ignore, as it can pose health risks and damage plumbing fixtures.

Strange Noises Coming from the Tank

As water heaters age, they often become noisy. Gurgling, popping, or rumbling sounds coming from your water heater are typically caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Over time, minerals and debris in the water settle and accumulate, forming a layer of sediment.

When this sediment is heated, it can create strange noises as steam bubbles escape. Not only is this annoying, but it also reduces the efficiency of your water heater and can lead to overheating and damage to the tank lining. Regular flushing can help prevent sediment buildup, but if the noises persist or worsen, it may be time for a replacement.

Age of the Water Heater

The age of your water heater is a crucial factor in determining whether it needs replacement. Most standard tank water heaters have a lifespan of about 8-12 years. If your unit has reached or surpassed the 10-year mark, it’s likely nearing the end of its useful life, even if it seems to be functioning normally.

As water heaters age, they become less efficient and more prone to problems. Keep track of when your water heater was installed and start planning for a replacement as it approaches a decade of use. This proactive approach can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and potential water damage from a failing unit.

Lack of Hot Water

One of the most frustrating signs of a failing water heater is a lack of hot water or inconsistent water temperatures. If you find yourself running out of hot water quickly or experiencing sudden temperature fluctuations during use, your water heater may be struggling to keep up with demand.

This could be due to a faulty heating element, thermostat issues, or sediment buildup reducing the tank’s capacity. In some cases, these problems can be repaired, but if they persist or worsen, especially in an older unit, replacement may be the most cost-effective solution.

Visible Leaks or Moisture Around the Tank

Water pooling around the base of your water heater or visible moisture on the tank itself are serious signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Even small leaks can quickly escalate, potentially causing significant water damage to your home. Leaks often occur due to expansion of the metal tank after years of heating and cooling cycles, leading to small fractures.

While some minor leaks around fittings or connections may be repairable, leaks in the tank itself usually mean it’s time for a replacement. Regular visual inspections of your water heater can help catch leaks early before they cause extensive damage.

Increasing Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed a steady increase in your energy bills without a corresponding increase in water usage, your water heater could be the culprit. As water heaters age, they become less efficient, requiring more energy to heat the same amount of water. This inefficiency translates to higher utility costs.

Modern water heaters are significantly more energy-efficient than older models. Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient unit can lead to substantial savings on your energy bills over time, often making the investment worthwhile.

Frequent Repairs

If you find yourself calling for repairs more and more frequently, it may be more cost-effective to replace your water heater rather than continue with repairs. While occasional maintenance is normal, frequent issues or expensive repairs on an older unit often indicate that it’s nearing the end of its lifespan.

Consider the cost of repairs versus the cost of a new unit. If repairs are costing more than 50% of the price of a new water heater, replacement is usually the better option.

By being aware of these signs, you can anticipate when your water heater needs replacement and plan accordingly. Regular maintenance and timely replacements can ensure you have reliable hot water, improve energy efficiency, and prevent potential water damage from sudden failures. If you’re unsure about the state of your water heater, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional plumber for an expert assessment.

Why Some Water Heaters Last Longer Than Others

Water heaters that are maintained regularly last longer than those that are not. Here are some of the things that responsible homeowners do to save money on their system:

Regular Maintenance Flush

With time, your water heater will accumulate sediment. This will happen fast if you get hard water in your pipes. If those particles are allowed to sit at the bottom of the tank, they will eventually form thick layers. This, in turn, will force your system to work harder than it should. The sediment will also damage your tank over time, leading to leaks.

A hot water maintenance flush once a year can flush out all sediment. All of the water needs to be drained from the tank in this case. Your plumber will first shut off the fuel source of the water heater (electricity or gas) and will attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.

The sediment will drain out from the tank through the hose. Don’t worry. A professional will always empty the fuel into a bucket or into a floor drain. The sediment will accumulate in a colander, so it doesn’t clog up the plumbing.

Next, they will turn off the cold water supply to the tank and run one of the hot water taps in your home. The tank will empty when the drain valve is opened. The water that comes out will be a bit thick and discolored, but that’s just the sediment. It will clear up as the deposit leaves the tank. You can ensure your system doesn’t clog up by turning on the cold water in short spurts. It will blast the gunk right out.

Once all of the hot water has been drained out of the tank, the plumber will close the drain valve, fill the tank partially with cold water and drain it again. The process will be repeated until the water becomes clear, i.e. without any sediment. The plumber will close the drain valve, remove the hose, and turn on the cold water supply. Once the water tank is full, the plumber will turn on the fuel supply, and hot water will come out of the hot water faucets.

Give It Space

You can also save money and stress by ensuring your water heater has sufficient space around it. So if you get it replaced, make sure the new one is not crowded. The room will give plumbers the space necessary to do routine maintenance, and the tank will not heat up to the point that it ignites.

Once the water heater is installed in the ideal spot, do not keep any cleaning tools and supplies around it. These can catch fire easily if the tank heats up.

Install Insulation

If you install insulation around the pipes and the heater, you can ensure your system lasts for years. Make sure you get insulation that is the same size as your pipe and just as thick. As a general rule of thumb, most plumbers recommend self-sticking foam insulation at least 3/8 of an inch wide.

The foam should cover both the hot and cold water pipes as much as possible. It will prevent the pipes from sweating or forming condensation that can leech warmth. If the pipes are close to the flue, make sure the insulation is just an inch thick and made of fibreglass.

Contact King Heating for Water Heater Repairs

Whether you need a new water heater installed, need a drain unclogged, or have leaks fixed, the experienced plumbers at King Heating can handle it all. We are also available for emergency services whenever needed. Plus, we do not charge extra to work on weekends and holidays. Just give us a call, and we will send a plumber to your place.